Causes and risk factors
Breast cancer is a medical condition that originates from the build of mass tissues called tumors that tend to block the other sides of the breast from getting the right nutrients. This disease is caused by factors such as:
- Breast cancer genes: The BRCA1 and BRCA2 [1] are the major tumor suppressor genes in the breast. They mostly help to regulate the production of cells and how these cells divide. However, mutations in these genes lead to a defect that makes the cells grow uncontrollably and then the growth of tumors. Other forms of these genes are CDH1, PTEN, STK11 and others.
- Radiation treatment: Radiation therapy around the chest area puts an individual at risk of breast cancer. This is a major risk, especially for individuals who underwent this process before the age of 30.
- Age: The older an individual gets, the higher the tendency to get breast cancer, research has shown that most breast cancer symptoms become noticeable and then diagnosed from the age of 55.
- Medications: this medical condition also tends to increase with the use of postmenopausal medications. These drugs are used to reduce the bad effects of menopause [2].
- Family history: research has shown that having a family member, which may be the mother, grandmother, aunty or even sister increases the risk of some individuals having breast cancer. However, this is not always applicable to every breast cancer situation.
- Dense breast: in cases of dense breast, it is more difficult to read mammograms that help detect the presence of these tumors and then make the condition worse before being noticed.
- Treatment of previous cancer.
- Beginning the menstrual flow at an early age.
- Taking excessive alcohol.